FL-MD — Operating Model

Submission-first. M.D. Fla. motions are decided on the papers. Oral argument is not granted as a matter of right — a party must request it in a separate document and state the time needed. L.R. 3.01(i) provides: "A party must request oral argument or an evidentiary hearing in a separate document accompanying the party's motion or response and stating the time necessary."

Key distinguishing features vs. comparable courts:

• No reply as a matter of right (except MSJ and social security). Every other reply requires a separate three-page motion for leave. L.R. 3.01(e).
• Motion and memorandum must be combined in a single document of no more than 25 pages. No separate brief filed after the motion. L.R. 3.01(b).
• No incorporation by reference. L.R. 3.01(h): "A motion, other legal memorandum, or brief may not incorporate by reference all or part of any other motion, legal memorandum, or brief."
• No proposed orders in civil cases unless leave granted. L.R. 3.01(k).
• No unauthorized correspondence. L.R. 3.01(l): "A party must not use a letter, email, or the like to request relief or to respond to a request for relief."
• Mandatory conferral before most motions, with a titled certificate section. L.R. 3.01(g).

Five divisions: Fort Myers, Jacksonville, Ocala, Orlando, Tampa. Cases are filed in the division most directly connected to the action. L.R. 1.04.